“I’m as strong as ever,” said the southpaw Stevenson. “I know he’s dangerous, I know he’s tough. He has a new trainer and he’s going to do everything he can to take my title. But I’m going to go for the knockout. I’m going to show him I don’t only have the left, I have the right, too.”

Fonfara promised he’s improved since their first meeting both physically and mentally under new trainer Virgil Hunter.

"I’m the smarter guy now, and I have more experience,” Fonfara said. “I’m ready mentally and physically to take his belt. I’m here to put Stevenson down and become the new light heavyweight champion."